Bucs narrow search for new general manager

Lionel Vital, top left, is among those receiving a second interview with the Bucs. Others reportedly receiving permission to talk with the team are Lake Dawson, clockwise from top right, Tom Gamble and Marc Ross. TRIBUNE FILE PHOTOS

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are preparing to take their search for a new general manager to the next level. With an initial round of interviews for the vacancy complete, the team has invited back several candidates for a second interview, Bucs spokesman Nelson Luis said.

Lionel Vital, the Atlanta Falcons’ director of player personnel, is among those receiving a second interview, said Luis, who did not reveal the names of the others receiving second interviews.

Vital is one of five executives from rival teams who are believed to have interviewed for the position that opened after Mark Dominik was fired Dec. 30.

Others who the Bucs reportedly received permission to speak to included New York Giants vice president of player evaluation Marc Ross, Tennessee Titans vice president of player personnel Lake Dawson and Philadelphia Eagles vice president of player personnel Tom Gamble.

About tbo (Tampa Bay Online) provides local news and information for Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater and communities throughout Tampa Bay. Originally published by The Tampa Tribune, tbo is now among the portfolio of brands powered by the Tampa Bay Times.